I was beginning to think I was done with this blog. I haven’t posted this year because in large part I haven’t felt like I have anything new to say that isn’t being regurgitated ad nauseum across the web, but isn’t it amazing how opportunity presents itself. I was informed on Friday that my position was basically being eliminated at the end of this month. The writing has to some extent been all over the wall for quite a while. I’m the last surviving member of my group prior to our company’s takeover a couple of year’s ago. Sole survivor until now. That either means I’m a glutton for punishment or loyal to a fault. Actually, it’s probably both.

So now what? Well, I thought it might be helpful to others to walk through this period with me. Perhaps there’s something I can share that will be helpful to others or perhaps my readers can help me get through this. Hopefully, it’s both.

It’s hard to do this without focusing on the emotional and other reactions you have and the first reaction I must assume is something like this:

I am:

Scared! – Definitely. As basically the sole provider for my family it’s very scary to think of think of this income source disappearing.

Pissed! – Definitely. This passed quickly, perhaps because I had already assessed the situation and saw it was par for the course with this company. No matter how personally you take this kind of thing and how much it affects you and your family’s survival, to them it’s just business. The sooner you accept this, the quicker you can focus on what matters. It reminds of a favorite quote:

“Life becomes easier when you learn to accept an apology you never got.” – Robert Brault

Relieved! – Definitely. This job stopped being fun about 2 years ago. All of my friends have already left, and the best parts of my role have been marginalized and devalued. I would not apply for my job today in it’s current form. I am so excited for the next opportunity.

Prepared! – Definitely. Plan for the best, but prepare for the worst has been my personal finance mantra for years. We have lived well below our means in order to save the money that will get us through this time. More than anything else, I feel prepared.

Throughout the next few posts I’ll walk you further through my process. I’m happy to take your questions, and I welcome your comments!